Raspberry Almond Shortbread Cookies

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f you’re looking for a cookie that feels a little fancy but is secretly easy to make, Raspberry Almond Shortbread Cookies are it. These buttery shortbread cookies melt in your mouth, have just a hint of almond flavor, and get a bright pop of sweetness from raspberry jam. They’re perfect for holidays, cookie swaps, afternoon coffee, or honestly… just because.

raspberry almond thumbprint christmas cookies

This is one of those recipes that looks bakery-worthy but comes together with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.

raspberry almond thumbprint christmas cookies

Why You’ll Love These Raspberry Almond Shortbread Cookies

  • Buttery, soft shortbread texture
  • Light almond flavor that pairs perfectly with raspberry
  • No rolling pin required
  • Easy to dress up for holidays or special occasions
  • Stores and freezes beautifully

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup raspberry jam (seedless works best)
  • Optional: sliced almonds or powdered sugar for garnish
raspberry almond thumbprint christmas cookies

How to Make Raspberry Almond Shortbread Cookies

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Mix in the almond extract and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until combined.
  5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet.
  6. Use your thumb (or the back of a spoon) to make an indentation in each cookie.
  7. Fill each indentation with about ½ teaspoon raspberry jam.
  8. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  9. Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
raspberry almond thumbprint christmas cookies

Tips for the Best Shortbread Cookies

  • Don’t overmix the dough — shortbread stays tender when handled gently
  • Chill the dough for 15 minutes if it feels too soft
  • Seedless jam gives a smoother, bakery-style finish
  • Sprinkle sliced almonds around the edges before baking for extra crunch
raspberry almond thumbprint christmas cookies

Variations to Try

  • Swap raspberry jam for apricot or strawberry
  • Drizzle with white chocolate once cooled
  • Add a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving
  • Use lemon extract instead of almond for a bright twist
raspberry almond thumbprint christmas cookies

How to Store

Store Raspberry Almond Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They also freeze well — just thaw at room temperature before serving.

raspberry almond thumbprint christmas cookies

Raspberry Almond Shortbread Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that feels a little fancy but is secretly easy to make, Raspberry Almond Shortbread Cookies are it.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup raspberry jam seedless works best
  • Optional: sliced almonds or powdered sugar for glaze

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  • Mix in the almond extract and vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until combined.
  • Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet.
  • Use your thumb (or the back of a spoon) to make an indentation in each cookie.
  • Fill each indentation with about ½ teaspoon raspberry jam.
  • Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  • Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

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